Friends to Die For

Writing is a very solitary experience--something most writers are perfectly comfortable with. I'm one of them. But every once in a while, a writer befriends other writers and a spark ignites. A spark that says, "These people get it."

If someone had told me that I would ever join a writing group, I'd have mocked them with bubbly laughter and then sicked my flying monkeys on them. But a few years ago, I began frequenting Writers Net and, as a result, learned a great deal about the industry. However, as happens in almost every artistic group, passions flared (as did tempers) and a new group (Backspace) was formed. It's here that I've met some of the best new writers out there and some of the best veterans, as well. (Kay Hooper is a member and truly a goddess in every way) I could go on and on about many of my fellow Backspacers, but today I'd like to focus on two.

Let me introduce you to Joe Konrath (who writes as JA Konrath--author of Whiskey Sour and Bloody Mary) and BK Birch (published author, poet, and book reviewer). Both are very talented writers and both are pretty amazing people. Joe signed a three book deal with Hyperion back in 2003 and, just recently, Hyperion told him they wanted another three in his Jack Daniels mysteries. (Not to mention that Joe is a funny guy who could probably sell a glass of water to a drowning man.) BK is published in all sorts of good places, including multiple stories with WildChild Publishing. (Plus she's a damn fine photographer)

Not only do they get it, these two know what I mean when I say "they get it". So, do yourself a favor and read their work, visit their websites, check out their blogs. You won't be dissappointed.